§ 21. Mr. Spenceasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Civil Aviation how many flying clubs in Great Britain are now operating; how many operate from private airfields; and how many from airfields used by services such as British European Airways Corporation and the Auxiliary Air Force.
§ The Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Civil Aviation (Mr. Lindgren)It is estimated that 100 flying clubs are now operating in Great Britain, of which 30 operate from privately-owned aerodromes, 13 operate from aerodromes used by scheduled air services, nine operate from aerodromes used by the Auxiliary Air Force, and one operates from an aerodrome used by both scheduled air services and the Auxiliary Air Force.
§ Mr. RankinIs my hon. Friend aware that the flying tuition fees at these clubs are £3 per hour in addition to entry money of £3 3s. and subscription of £5 5s., and in the case of those clubs which are using nationalised airfields can he not do something to reduce these charges to bring them within the compass of the ordinary person's purse?
§ Mr. LindgrenThat is an entirely different question.
§ 23. Mr. Spenceasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Civil 2009 Aviation when he will allow the Aberdeen Flying Club at Dyce to resume its normal activities.
§ Mr. LindgrenI am not aware of any circumstances within the control of my Department which prevent the Aberdeen Flying Club from resuming its normal activities at Dyce.
§ Mr. SpenceMay I ask the Minister whether he is aware that, while the buildings are being de-requisitioned, no residences have been restored and they are therefore unable to be used?
§ Mr. LindgrenNo, Sir. Those associated with the local club were informed in June, 1946, that flying club activities could take place from then.
§ Mr. George WardHas a decision been taken on whether the recommendations of the Straight Committee are to be implemented or not?
§ Mr. LindgrenNo, Sir; that is another question.
§ Mr. E. L. Gandar DowerIs the Parliamentary Secretary aware that the Aberdeen Flying Club have not had their rights on this airport restored to them, that for 10 years and six weeks they have not been allowed to trade or to serve meals or drinks because of a state of emergency; and that, although their clubhouse was allegedly derequisitioned on 8th August, 1946, no compensation rent has been paid and no dilapidations to the clubhouse have been carried out; and that the proprietors of the club have no legal right to cross the ground and enter the premises?
§ Mr. LindgrenI do not accept those statements in any shape or form. In June, 1946, at the request of the authorities associated with the Aberdeen Flying Club, the buildings were de-requisitioned, and, subject to certain qualifications, operations could have begun and continued from then.